Hi Jessica,

Congrats on your weight loss so far. And what a wonderful place to move to.....Hawaii!!! I can't tell you about support groups as i am on Kauai....but, there is a wonderful gal named Jeni who lives on Oahu and who also has had the VSG. She hangs out on the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy board. I'd suggest hooking up with her and she'd be more than happy to help yu out.

Aloha,

michelle

E Komo Mai, Jessica! I just wanted to welcome you here to the Hawaii Board. I can't help you with those questions, but I believe there are some here who can.

Congratulations on your revision and your success. I had a VSG the end of May, so I just celebrated my 6 month surgiversary.

We're a small group here, but a loving one! Hopefully, someone will come around and answer your questions.

Malama pono.

Aloha Dolly...
The only way you'll reach an educated decision on what is right for you is by reading about all the different types of Weight Loss Surgeries. Attend siminars, call surgeons' offices, read, read, read!! Everyone has a comfort zone. Each surgery has its own post-op regimine that you will likely be following for the rest of your life. This decision should not be made lightly or quickly. Do you want restriction or malabsorbtion? Do you want your intestines re-routed? Do you want part of your stomach removed? Are you willing to commit to a devise that will need attention regularly? So many questions and so many opinions. Read them all. Also, learn the pro's and con's about each surgery. Read people's profiles here on the different forums... the Lap Band, the DS, the VSG, the RnY... they are the main 4. This website offers a lot of advise... good and bad, so you'll sometimes have to sort it out.

Once you have gathered enough information, you will know which one is right for you. It should be your choice just as who you chose as your surgeon. Make a list of questions... none are silly or trivial. If you're not totally comfortable with a surgeon after a consultation or they try to convince you to have a surgery or procedure you're not comfortable with, don't be afraid to consult with another surgeon. Don't limit yourself to having a surgery because it is the only kind that particular surgeon does. Find a surgeon who performs the surgery you want. It should be someone you have confidence in and a procedure you believe in. I feel that those are the basics for success.

It can be a little overwhelming sometimes. Most people feel the procedure they had is the best... of course! That's why they had it! Again, it is that belief in what they did that will make them successful.

Good luck on your journey and never hesitate to ask questions. This is a very serious step... a life altering change. It is also an amazing adventure!!!!! Many of us have gotten our lives back and live healthier lifestyles and are happier than we've ever been! We've reduced our risks of potential heart and liver disease, diabetes, and some cancers. You don't always get a second chance at life, but for many of us, that is exactly what we've done.

Hi Maile,

Is HMSA covering your sleeve or are you self pay?  Congrats on your date.  Will keep you in my prayers for a successful surgery!

i know ive got an appointment today with the psyc but ive lost the number and location...help what is the name or number so i can get there???